S 2303

Concerns subcontracting agreements entered into by public school districts and county colleges

S2303 (Bucco, Singleton, Freiman, Lopez, Zwicker) Educational Support Professionals (ESPs) are essential to providing the very best learning environment for students in our public schools.  Despite this critical role in our public education system, ESPs do not receive the same treatment under law as other school staff.

S2303 would prohibit school employers and county colleges from entering into a subcontracting agreement that affects the employment of those already covered by a negotiated contract during its term.  Too often, ESPs live under the threat of privatization and subcontracting despite already having an agreement.  Staff who provide vital services to students deserve stability.  What’s more, a contract should be binding on both parties—not severed by new agreements with third parties.  This bill would not prevent privatization and subcontracting, but only ensures that an employer acts in good faith and honors the contract after it is ratified. Ultimately, S2303 would remedy a long-overdue unfairness for these essential school employees.

NJEA asks that you VOTE YES on S2303.